February (Poem) Summary

Everything you need to understand or teach February (Poem).

  • February (Poem) Summary & Study Guide

February (Poem) Overview

"February" is a free verse seasonal poem by novelist, poet, and literary critic Margaret Atwood. Originally published in her 1995 collection Morning in the Burned House, "February" deals with the despair associated with the final stretch of winter. When the speaker's cat jumps onto the bed, the speaker reflects on the brutality and appetites that propel life forward. Rather than dwell in misery, the speaker insists on kindling hope that spring will eventually return.